A longtime member of the Society for Advancement of Chicanos/Hispanics and Native Americans in Science (SACNAS) and Chair of the Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, Patricia Silveyra is stepping into a new leadership role as President-Elect of this nationwide professional organization. Her voluntary four-year term on the SACNAS Executive Committee began January 1.
Silveyra has been active in SACNAS since 2014, previously serving on the board as treasurer in 2019 and as a student chapter mentor both at Indiana University Bloomington and during her time as an associate professor at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (UNC). Shortly after her arrival at SPH-B five years ago, she founded the IU Bloomington SACNAS chapter with the help of colleague Vanessa Kercher, assistant professor in the Department of Health & Wellness Design (HWD). Boasting more than 50 members across campus, the IU Bloomington SACNAS Chapter accepted the prestigious Chapter of the Year Award at the 51st NDiSTEM conference in 2024.
“These experiences reflect my long-standing dedication to SACNAS’ mission of empowering scientists through mentorship, leadership, and community building,” says Silveyra, whose students routinely present their research at the conference. “Through these activities and its supportive community, SACNAS has had a profound impact on my career, especially at pivotal moments.”
Silveyra says that running for the role of President-Elect was her way to “give back” to an organization that was highly influential in determining her career trajectory, as well as supporting the next generation by expanding training and mentorship opportunities for students and early career scientists. This, in turn, would strengthen SACNAS’ overall national leadership, “elevating the society’s scientific programming by engaging multiple sectors and disciplines.”
Silveyra adds, “I also hope to deepen engagement with chapters, communities, and institutional partners to ensure that SACNAS remains a powerful catalyst for belonging, representation, and scientific excellence.”
In turn, Silveyra’s new role continues to put SPH-B on the map as a significant advocate for support of the STEM community across minority groups and marginalized communities, ensuring equal opportunity for budding scientists from all walks of life.
“I hope to amplify the visibility and contributions of researchers across multiple disciplines nationwide and continue building a strong STEM workforce that reflects the communities we serve,” says Silveyra.
Read more about SPH-B faculty, staff, and students making a difference at go.iu.edu/48bx.